Program Overview

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Independent Prescribing for Optometrists (PgCert)

Overview

The Independent Prescribing for Optometrists (PgCert) programme is a 2-year distance learning course designed to prepare optometrists to practice as independent prescribers. The programme meets the standards set by the General Optical Council (GOC) for specialist entry onto the GOC register.

Why Study This Course

• Our innovative, clinically-focused programme equips optometrists with the necessary knowledge and skills to enhance their career and contribute effectively to extended professional roles.
• The programme is accredited by the General Optical Council (GOC) and ranked 2nd for Optometry in the Complete University Guide 2024.
• Many of our teaching staff are practicing researchers and leading experts in their fields.

Admissions Criteria

To be considered for the programme, applicants must:

• Provide evidence of full GOC registration.
• Submit a letter from a suitably qualified person stating they will act as the applicant's Designated Prescribing Practitioner (DPP) for the duration of the placement.
• Provide proof of an employment contract or honorary contract for the placement organisation(s) or a letter from a senior person in the organisation stating that neither are required to undertake a placement.

Application Deadline and Selection Process

• Applications are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, and it is recommended to apply as early as possible.
• Applications normally close at the end of August but may close sooner if all places are filled.
• Interviews may be held with non-UK optometrists to ensure practitioners have the relevant clinical skills required to undertake the course.

Course Structure

The programme consists of three core 20-credit modules over two academic years, combining both academic and placement learning.

Year One

• Semester one: Investigation and management of eye conditions in optometric independent prescribing practice.
• Semester two: Professional, legal, and ethical frameworks relevant to independent prescribing and clinical governance/quality assurance aspects of prescribing.

Year Two

• The Independent Prescribing in Practice module runs throughout both semesters, enabling students to achieve GOC requirements of 90 hours of supervised time with their DPP.

Learning and Assessment

• Teaching and learning methods include online lectures, online articles, and webinars.
• Assessment methods include submission of case records, timed examinations, and a portfolio completed during the placement module.
• Students will receive feedback from university tutors, placement supervisors, and their DPP.

Tuition Fees

• Tuition fees for 2026 entry are not yet available.
• Fees for home status and overseas status will be confirmed later.

Additional Costs

• Placement costs, including travel and accommodation to attend the in-person teaching day in Cardiff.
• IT equipment, including access to a computer with reliable internet access.

Funding

• Postgraduate loans may be available for students starting their master's degree in September 2026 or later.

Careers and Placements

• The programme develops skills and strengthens professional portfolios, enabling optometrists to provide services to patients that would have previously only been available via hospital treatment.
• Placements provide students with the opportunity to critically reflect and apply the principles of prescribing to their scope of practice.

Next Steps

• Open Day visits are available for prospective students.
• The programme starts on 28 September 2026.